At the retro Corvette Diner in Liberty Station near downtown San Diego, you’ll embark on a delightful journey back to the 1950s. The pink bubblegum walls are adorned with black-and-white checked flags, and waitresses wearing poodle skirts sing and dance when they’re not serving burgers and milkshakes. Corvette’s playful menu includes the Garbage Plate with sliders, chicken fingers, onion rings, and mozzarella wedges; Hoochie Coochie calamari fries; and the Elvis-inspired Rory burger with peanut butter, bacon, lettuce, and mayo (the menu calls it the “our money back, guaranteed to please burger.”)
Although fun-loving adults will appreciate the lively atmosphere—and likely want to snap a photo in front of the shiny Corvette—the kids will be busy in the Gamers Garage, an arcade under the same roof. It offers more than 60 games, ranging from pinball to air hockey, with prizes up for grabs. Before you go, check the restaurant’s promotions page for arcade and dining combo deals.
If you saved time for more, browse the Liberty Public Market a few blocks away. The 25,000-square-foot converted naval complex showcases the diverse flavors of San Diego, with more than 30 food, beverage, and artisan vendors.